Take the first step

The loss of another friend recently has reminded me of the importance of a memorial to those who have lost their lives to suicide.  The memorial, not just for those lost but also for the loved ones and friends left behind.  Somewhere for them to go to reflect on their loved ones life and their shared memories.  

The month of June is PTSD awareness and also Men's Mental Health, both of which can be overshadowed by other organisations claiming this month.  Both of these are important and linked together highlighting the bigger issue that men are still struggling to speak up or seek help.  

From a military point of view there is a lot of help out there.  Social media platforms have a growing number of accounts run by military veterans who are there to talk or help out with signposting.  Charities like Veterans Charity, Icarus, Combat Stress, British Legion, SSAFA to name but a few are there offering a variety of help.

Taking the first step and reaching out to someone is usually the hardest part but veterans have been places and seen some of the toughest things imaginable.  Reaching out and taking those first steps should be their next mission, for themselves and their loved ones. 

Losing a person to suicide is the hardest grief to bear and I am certain this is not what they would want to leave their loved ones with.

As it is so difficult for veterans to reach out the Buddy Check is so important. Keep in touch with your friends and buddies. Make a call, send a text, go for a coffee, whatever is needed to stop the mental negative cycle and keep our friends, colleagues and loved ones with us.

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